I-85 Express Lanes

In operation 24 hours a day/7 days a week, I-85 Express Lanes are High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes that allow registered transit, three or more person carpools, motorcycles, emergency vehicles, and Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV) with the proper AFV license plate (does not include hybrid vehicles) to use the Express Lanes toll-free. Vehicles with fewer than three occupants, including solo drivers, can choose whether to use the general purpose lanes or pay for a more reliable trip in the Express Lanes. As with the HOV lanes, vehicles with 2+ axles and/or 6+ wheels are not allowed in the Express Lanes.

The I-85 Express Lanes are dynamically priced and range from $0.01 cent per mile to a flat $13.95 for any length trip. As demand for use of the Express Lanes increases, the toll amount rises to ensure that motorists using the Express Lanes experience more reliable trip times. Motorists can see the posted toll amount before they enter the Express Lanes, so that they are able to decide whether or not they want to use them. Tolls on the I-85 Express Lanes are collected electronically, with no toll booths requiring drivers to slow down or stop.

The I-85 Express Lanes are located in the northeast Atlanta metropolitan area. The lanes are approximately 16 miles in length stretching from Chamblee Tucker Road, just south of I-285, to Old Peachtree Road in Gwinnett County.

In addition, to the I-85 Express Lanes, High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes are currently operating or being planned in a number of cities across the country. Cities with existing HOT lane projects include:

Denver, Colorado (I-25 Express Lanes)

Houston, Texas (I-10 West Katy Freeway)

Los Angeles County, CA (I-110 Express Lanes)

Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Florida (I-95 Express Lanes)

Minneapolis, Minnesota (I-394 and I-35W MnPASS Express Lanes)

Orange County, California (SR 91 Express Lanes)

Salt Lake City, Utah (I-15 Express Lanes)

San Diego, California (I-15 Express Lanes)

San Jose, California (I-680 Express Lanes)

Silicon Valley, California (SR 237 Express Lanes)

Seattle, Washington (SR 167 HOT Lanes)

Washington, DC (I-495 Express Lanes on the Capital Beltway)

Salt Lake City, Utah (I-15 Express Lanes Pilot)

Additional projects are planned in Washington, DC and Maryland; Austin and Dallas, TX;, the San Francisco Bay Area and Santa Cruz, CA; Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham, NC; Portland, OR, and Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Georgia has studied these HOT lane projects and is learning from the experience of others. In February 2010, a group of national experts convened at the Georgia Freight Depot to share first-hand knowledge about HOT lanes. The I-85 Express Lanes project is part of Georgia’s vision of a statewide Managed Lanes network. This demonstration project will provide the region with experience and data to make long-term decisions about how Express Lanes can provide the Atlanta metropolitan area with a more reliable transportation option.

No. Unlike a tax that everyone pays, only the drivers who choose to use a toll facility will be charged a fee. Motorists have the option to use the existing general purpose lanes toll-free, or pay to use the toll facility (e.g. I-85 Express Lanes and future tolling facilities in Georgia) if better mobility and more reliable trip times are desired.

No. Registered accounts for transit, state-registered vanpools, carpools with three or more occupants, motorcycles, emergency vehicles, and Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV) with the proper AFV license plate (does not include hybrid vehicles) can use the Express Lanes without paying a toll by properly selecting the corresponding toll mode.

Vehicles that do not meet occupancy requirements (less than three occupants) can use the Express Lanes by paying a toll. As demand for use of the Express Lanes increases, the toll rate rises to ensure free-flowing traffic and reliable trip times in the Express Lanes. Drivers can see the cost of the trip before they enter the Express Lanes, allowing them to make an informed choice about whether or not using the lanes makes sense for them. Travel in the adjacent general purpose lanes remains toll-free for drivers at all times.

There are no toll booths on the I-85 Express Lanes. Tolls are collected electronically through Peach Pass, a small, thin electronic sticker that adheres to a vehicle’s windshield. Use of this innovative technology allows drivers to maintain highway speeds instead of slowing down or stopping at a toll booth.

Yes. Drivers from other states can use the I-85 Express Lanes, however, they will need to register for a Peach Pass prior to using the Express Lanes.

NOTE: Georgia became interoperable with Florida and North Carolina in 2014. This means Florida’s “Sun Pass” and North Carolina’s “Quick Pass” provide access to and pay tolls for the I-85 Express Lanes and any future Georgia tolling facilities. Conversely, Georgia’s Peach Pass will be valid for toll payment in each of those states as well. Motorists with a Peach Pass Personal Toll Account can access toll roads in Florida and North Carolina without taking any additional action. Motorists with a Pay n GO! Peach Pass Account MUST CONVERT to a Personal Toll Account BEFORE they can take advantage of accessing toll roads in Florida and North Carolina. Motorists should contact the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

No. The only way to take advantage of the toll-exempt feature is to have a Peach Pass and be in Non-Toll mode. Florida SunPass or North Carolina Quick Pass accounts do not have the ability to switch to Non-Toll status.

In 2008, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) committed $110 million in federal funds toward the Atlanta Congestion Reduction Demonstration (CRD) project. The CRD grant funded $122 million in transit investments, as well as $60 million for the conversion of approximately 16 miles of existing HOV lanes to Express Lanes on I-85 and other highway investments. The total cost for the Express Lane tolling system, civil construction, public outreach, regional transit improvements and performance monitoring was $182 million.

I-75 South Metro Express Lanes

The I-75 South Metro Express Lanes are newly constructed reversible toll lanes that run through Henry and Clayton counties along Interstate 75, northbound and southbound. These reversible managed toll lanes operate northbound in the morning toward Atlanta and southbound in the evening. These new lanes will add capacity to the existing general purpose lanes.

The I-75 South Metro Express Lanes extend 12 miles, from State Route 155 (McDonough Road) in Henry County north to State Route 138 (Stockbridge Highway) in Clayton County. They are separated from the general purpose lanes by a concrete barrier with designated entry and exit points.

There are several designated entry and exit points, or “access points.” Vehicles will be able to access the lanes in the northbound direction at slip ramps located north of State Route 155 and State Routes 20/81 and via a dedicated ramp from Jonesboro Road. In the southbound direction, access will be available from slip ramps at I-75 and I-675.

The I-75 South Express Lanes are accessible seven days a week with a registered Peach Pass mounted properly in the vehicle. The I-75 South Metro Express Lanes flow in the direction of traffic – toward Atlanta during the morning commute and away from Atlanta during the evening commute. For special events such as NASCAR races or peak spring break travel, Georgia DOT will work to ensure the operation of the system has the lanes flowing in the direction with the greatest travel demand.

Any motorist with a registered, active Peach Pass mounted on the inside of their vehicle’s windshield will be able to access the I-75 South Metro Express Lanes. Vehicles with 2+ axles and/or 6+ wheels are not allowed in the Express Lanes including tractor trailers.

These reversible Express Lanes have been successfully implemented in communities across the country. The lanes are separated by concrete barriers with safety measures built in from cameras and HERO units. There are also a series of barrier and warning gates at each entry and exit point to deter motorists from getting on the Express Lanes in the wrong direction.

Georgia DOT’s HERO trucks are dedicated to the lanes 24/7 and will be onsite during lane reversals. Additionally, the Toll Operations Center will be staffed at all times by trained staff dedicated to monitoring the Express Lanes for incidents and managing the lane reversals.

When a direction of the Express Lanes is closed, a series of gates at each entry and exit point deter motorists from getting on the Express Lanes in the wrong direction. In addition, the Express Lane signage will read “CLOSED.”

A barrier gate prevents vehicles from access to the I-75 Express Lanes when they are closed to motorists. These gates are also used to prevent Express Lanes traffic from exiting in the wrong direction. At each entrance and exit, there are at least 3 and up to 9 barrier gates alerting motorists that it is closed. In addition, a red banner will hang from the front gate that says “DO NOT ENTER.”

The final warning gate is heavily weighted and is designed to stop cars traveling up to 43 miles-per-hour (MPH).

A shoulder is available in the I-75 South Metro Express Lanes so that a driver can safely pull out of the lane in the event of a vehicle stall or break down. HERO units will be patrolling the express lanes to help motorists and move vehicles to shoulders.

If an accident occurs, emergency access gates will be located throughout the Express Lanes to allow first responders to quickly enter the lanes to assist. Gates are designed to allow fire trucks and standard vehicles, like an ambulance, to pull into the Express Lanes. There are a number of processes and procedures established for responding to incidents in the lanes once they open to the public.

The Toll Operations Center will be staffed at all times by trained staff dedicated to monitoring the Express Lanes for incidents and HERO trucks will be dedicated to the lanes 24/7.

The I-75 South Metro Express Lanes are dynamically priced and range from 50 cents per trip to 90 cents per mile, depending on congestion. As demand for use of the Express Lanes increases, the toll amount rises to ensure that motorists using the Express Lanes experience more reliable trip times. Motorists can see the posted toll amount before they enter the Express Lanes, so that they are able to decide whether or not they want to use them.

Unlike the I-85 Express Lanes, state-registered transit riders and vanpools are the only ones who can ride for free on the I-75 South Metro Express Lanes. State-registered alternate fuel vehicles (AFVs), motorcycles and all carpools must pay tolls on I-75 South Metro Express Lanes.

Peach Pass

Peach Pass is a small, thin electronic sticker, similar to the GA Cruise Card, which adheres to a vehicle’s windshield. The Peach Pass is connected to an account established with the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) and automatically deducts tolls when using the electronic toll lanes of the Georgia Express Lanes.

The Pay n GO! Peach Pass is designed to make the I-85 Express Lanes accessible to users who may not have debit/credit cards or prefer to manage their Peach Pass account with cash or a debit or credit card. Much like a prepaid phone card, the Pay n GO! Peach Pass can be purchased and reloaded at participating CVS/pharmacy and Walgreens locations. Visit our store locator at www.PeachPass.com to find a participating Pay n GO! retailer near you.

All motorists who want to use the I-85 Express Lanes must first open a Peach Pass account. Go to www.PeachPass.com and click on the “Open a New Account” tab and follow the prompts. Once the customer receives the new Peach Pass, he or she will need to mount it in or on the vehicle before using the Express Lanes. If you already have a Peach Pass Account, you can log on to your account under “Manage My Account” and add additional vehicles. A Peach Pass will be mailed to the account holder within 7-10 business days.

*Each vehicle in a household must be registered for a separate Peach Pass transponder, although all household transponders can be listed on one account (up to 10 transponders). Households may also choose to have multiple Peach Pass accounts.

Peach Pass transponders associated for either a Personal Toll Account or Toll-exempt Toll Account are free. No prepaid toll balance is required for a Toll-exempt Toll Account; a Personal Toll Account requires a prepaid toll balance (minimum of $20.00). A Pay n GO! Peach Pass Starter Kit, which includes a Peach Pass transponder and Reload Card, can be purchased for a $2.50 retailer fee in addition to the cost of the amount of prepaid tolls (any amount between $20-$500).

An initial payment of $20 to open the account (can be in the form of credit/debit card, check, money order or cash at select Customer Service Center locations)

A valid, active credit card or debit card for replenishment of your account

To open a Pay n GO! Peach Pass Account, visit a participating CVS/pharmacy and Walgreens store and purchase a Starter Kit for the cost of the amount of prepaid tolls ($20 -$500) and a one-time $2.50 retailer fee. Pay n GO! Peach Pass customers do not submit vehicle and contact information upon activation.

Yes. The Pay n GO! Peach Pass is designed to make the I-85 Express Lanes accessible to users who may not have debit/credit cards or prefer to manage their Peach Pass account with cash or a debit or credit card. Much like a prepaid phone card, the Pay n GO! Peach Pass can be purchased and reloaded at participating CVS/pharmacy and Walgreens stores. Visit our store locator at www.PeachPass.com to find a participating Pay n GO! retailer near you.

There are two Pay n GO! Peach Pass options:

Full Starter Kit: The Pay n GO! Peach Pass Starter Kit, which includes a fully activated Peach Pass transponder and Reload Card, can be purchased for the cost of the amount of prepaid tolls ($20 -$500), plus a one-time $2.50 retailer fee.

Reload Card: Drivers who already have a Pay n GO! or regular Peach Pass account can purchase toll credits on a reloadable card in the amount of $20-$500, plus a $1.50 convenience fee each time they add funds.

Your Peach Pass must be permanently installed on the inside, center of your windshield before driving on the toll road. Allow 3/4 inch from the center of the mirror and 2 inches from the top of the windshield. If you have another type of tag on your windshield, it must be at least 2 inches away from the Peach Pass. Install the Peach Pass when the windshield’s temperature is above 50ºF (10ºC). If necessary, use your heater/defroster to warm the windshield before installing the Peach Pass.Note: Metallized windshields require a bumper mount Peach Pass, rather than a windshield tag to ensure accurate toll readings.

Yes, you can use a Peach Pass, but you will need to install it on a special bumper mount provided to you by the Peach Pass Customer Service Center. When you receive the bumper mount, bolt it to your front bumper using the pre-drilled holes that are meant to hold a front license plate. If your vehicle does not have pre-drilled holes, brackets may be provided by your dealership or found at an auto parts store.

To get a Peach Pass bumper mount, please call our Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

The bumper mount should be bolted to your front bumper using the pre-drilled holes that are meant to hold a front license plate. If your vehicle does not have pre-drilled holes, brackets may be provided by your dealership or found at an auto parts store.

To get a Peach Pass bumper mount, please call our Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

Customers will need to determine if their account will be set up as a Personal Toll Account or a Toll-exempt Account. Peach Pass customers who are exempt from tolls will not be billed when using the Express Lanes.

Personal Toll Account. This is an Account that is prepaid and you must maintain sufficient funds in your Account to cover tolls and other charges resulting from your use of the Peach Pass. Each time a Peach Pass is accepted as a method of payment at a toll facility or the Toll Account otherwise incurs other charges (see Customer Agreement, Attachment A, at www.peachpass.com), the applicable amount will be deducted from the prepaid balance. Up to ten Peach Passes may be linked to any one Personal Toll Account. If you will have three or more passengers in your vehicle on the I-85 Express Lanes on any given day, you have the option to change your Peach Pass toll mode at least 15 minutes before using the Express Lanes and you will not have to pay a toll for the qualifying trip (see Customer Agreement, Section 3.2.2, for more details at www.peachpass.com). You can open a Personal Toll Account online at www.peachpass.com.

Toll Exempt Account. This is an Account where each vehicle associated with this Account will not pay a toll on toll facilities because each vehicle is (a) a motorcycle, (b) an alternative fuel vehicle bearing alternative fueled license plates issued under O.C.G.A. §40-2-76, or (c) passenger vehicles occupied by three or more people. If there is any chance that you will use the Peach Pass on a toll facility with no HOV requirements (e.g., GA 400), or you will use the I-85 Express Lanes with less than three people in your vehicle then you must open a Personal or Commercial Toll Account instead of a Toll Exempt Account. In order to open a Toll Exempt Account, you must contact Peach Pass Customer Service at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

However, keep in mind that if you register as a “toll-exempt” customer, you will receive a violation if you do not meet the toll-exempt requirements (i.e. riding with three or more people in the vehicle) at any given point. If you know that you will need to use the I-85 Express Lanes occasionally or at any given point with less than three people in your vehicle, you should register as a “Personal Toll Account” and select the “toll-exempt” mode. You will have the option to select your duration of change for your toll mode: 4 hours, 1 day, weekdays or indefinite.

To avoid a traffic violation, Peach Pass customers will need to make sure their account lists the proper toll mode before using the I-85 Express Lanes. A customer’s toll mode status can easily be changed online at www.peachpass.com or by calling the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at least 15 minutes prior to using the Express Lanes.

Customer service representatives can assist you in opening a toll-exempt account by phone at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277) Monday-Friday, from 8:00 am-5:00 pm, or in person at one of three Peach Pass Customer Service Centers:

Yes. If you have a Peach Pass Account, you can manage your account online by logging into your account at www.PeachPass.com with your username and password and clicking on the green “Open/Manage Your Account” icon. If you have not set up online account management, you can click on the same icon and begin the process. To access your account, you will need your account number and four-digit PIN or the last four digits of the primary phone number on your account. Your account number can be found on your statement or, for new customers, the inside flap of your “Welcome” packet.

If you opened your account prior to June 27, 2011, you will need to set up online access to include a new password and username. You can enter your existing username to check availability, but it is not guaranteed. If you have questions about setting up online access, please contact the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

Customers who open a Personal Toll Account have the option to change their “toll mode” depending on their travel plans.

For example, if a customer has a three-person carpool on weekdays, they can designate their toll mode to “non-toll” status for weekdays only so they are not charged a toll when using the Express Lanes for that time period. The toll mode will automatically default to “toll” on the weekends in this example. Toll mode changes must be completed at least 15 minutes before using the roadway.

1. Click on the green “Open/Manage Your Account” module at the top of the PeachPass.com homepage.
2. Log in to your account, click on the “Change Toll Mode” link in the left-hand side bar and select/highlight the vehicle in which you will be traveling.
3. Click on “Change Toll Mode” and select the appropriate vehicle.
4. Click on “View/Change Mode” and select the duration for your toll mode change (using military time).
5. Verify that your information is correct and click “OK”.
6. Click “Save”.

There is technology in the Express Lanes that alerts law enforcement if a Peach Pass customer has designated their Peach Pass sticker tag in “non-toll” mode. If law enforcement sees less than three people in the vehicle, the vehicle will be pulled over and fined for an occupancy violation ($75 for the first offense plus court fees) just as law enforcement does on the HOV lanes. In addition, the motorists will receive a violation notice in the mail from the State Road and Tollway Authority for $25 plus the amount of the toll.

Toll-exempt vehicles on your Personal Toll account (motorcycle, AFV vehicle or carpool of 3 or more), must be in “non-toll” mode when using the I-85 Express Lanes to receive a toll-free ride. So be sure that the Peach Pass associated with your motorcycle is designated “non-toll” at least 15 minutes before accessing the lanes.

Yes. If you have a Peach Pass Personal Toll Account, you can update your billing information online at www.PeachPass.com. Click on the “Open/Manage Your Account” icon in the upper left-hand corner of the home page and log in to your account with your username and password. Then complete the following steps:

Click on the “Update Billing Info” from the left-hand side bar and select the information you need to update from the green “Account Profile” pull-down menu.

Select “Edit” to change your “Personal Info,” or “Add” to update your “Billing Info” with a new debit or credit card.

Verify that your information is correct then click “OK” and then “SAVE.”

Log in to your account using the same user id and password established for online account management. If you have not established online account access, you’ll need to do so at www.myPeachPass.com. Select “Manage My Account” then the “Set Up Online Access” tab and follow the instructions using your account number and the last four digits of the primary phone number listed for your Peach Pass account.

Once you’ve logged in to your account, the Peach Pass GO! home page automatically displays your account balance and the last 10 transactions within a 30-day period.

SPECIAL NOTE:

Each time the application is opened, a simple splash screen will prompt you to press a green “OK” button agreeing that you are not operating a motor vehicle while using the app. If you do not select “OK,” the application will automatically shut down.

If you have a “sticker” type transponder that adheres to your front window, you will need to request a new Peach Pass for the new vehicle. You can, however, move a “bumper mounted” transponder to another new vehicle (s). Just be sure to call the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-724-7277 for personal assistance, or if you have online account access, you can order and activate your new Peach Pass online at www.peachpass.com:

• Click on the “Manage My Account” icon and enter your username and password to log in to your account. If you do not have online account access, select the “Manage My Account” icon and then the green “Set Up Online Access” tab at the top of the next page to do so.

• Select “Add a Peach Pass” from the left-hand side bar and then click the orange “Add” button to order a Peach Pass for your new vehicle.

• Enter the requested information (new vehicle’s make, model, year, and license plate number) and your new Peach Pass will be mailed to your within 7-10 business days.

• Your Peach Pass transponder will be activated and ready for use in the I-85 Express Lanes and future tolling facilities in Georgia when you receive it.

You can call the Peach Pass customer Service Center at 1-855-724-7277 or if you have online access, logon to www.peachpass.com and follow the steps below:

• Click on the “Open/Manage Your Account” icon and enter your username and password to log in to your account. If you do not have online account access, select the “Open/Manage Your Account” icon and then the green “Set Up Online Access” tab at the top of the next page to do so.

• Select “Add a Peach Pass” from the left-hand side bar and then click the orange “Add” button to order a Peach Pass for your new vehicle.

• Enter the requested information (new vehicle’s make, model, year, and license plate number) and your new Peach Pass will be mailed to your within 7-10 business days.

• Your Peach Pass transponder will be activated and ready for use in the I-85 Express Lanes and future tolling facilities in Georgia when you receive it.

Yes, your new temporary license plate number can be used to open a Peach Pass Personal Toll account. You also may purchase a Pay n GO! Peach Pass, which does not require any personal or vehicle information for activation.

To open a Personal Toll Peach Pass account, you can call the Peach Pass Customer Service Center for personal assistance at 1-855-724-7277 or if you have online access, logon to www.peachpass.com and follow the steps below:
• Click on the “Open/Manage My Account” icon and enter your username and password to log in to your account. If you do not have online account access, select the “Open/Manage My Account” icon and then the green “Set Up Online Access” tab at the top of the next page to do so.

• Select “Add a Peach Pass” from the left-hand side bar and then click the orange “Add” button to order a Peach Pass for your new vehicle.

• Enter the requested information (new vehicle’s make, model, year, and temporary license plate number) and your new Peach Pass will be mailed to your within 7-10 business days.

• Your Peach Pass transponder will be activated and ready for use in the I-85 Express Lanes and future tolling facilities in Georgia when you receive it.

• SPECIAL NOTE: when you receive your permanent license plate, be sure to return to the “Update Vehicle Info” page and update your account to reflect that new number.

You also can purchase a Pay n GO! Peach Pass Starter Kit, which includes a Peach Pass transponder and Reload Card, at a participating CVS/pharmacy or Walgreens retailer for the cost of the amount of prepaid tolls (any amount between $20-$500) plus an additional $2.50 retailer. Visit our store locator at www.PeachPass.com to find a participating retailer near you.

Yes. It is possible to link up to 10 transponders per one Peach Pass Personal Toll Account. However if you have a business and would like to receive more than ten transponders, please contact our Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

It is not possible to link multiple transponders to an unregistered Pay n GO! Peach Pass account. However, a Pay n GO! Peach Pass account can be converted to a regular Personal Toll Peach Pass account. Once converted, multiple transponders can be linked to that account.

Yes. In order to access the I-85 Express Lanes in a rental vehicle, motorists would need to have a Personal Toll or Pay n GO! Peach Pass account associated with the rental vehicle prior to using the lanes. Customers can open a Peach Pass account by calling the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277) or by visiting the following walk-up Peach Pass Customer Service Center locations:

Customers also can purchase a Pay n GO! Peach Pass Starter Kit, which includes a Peach Pass transponder and Reload Card, at a participating CVS/pharmacy or Walgreens store for the cost of the amount of prepaid tolls (any amount between $20-$500) plus an additional $2.50 retailer fee. Visit our store locator at www.PeachPass.com to find a participating retailer near you.

If you have a Peach Pass or Cruise Card on an existing vehicle, please do not remove your transponder from the vehicle and place it in the rental vehicle. The Peach Pass/Cruise Card device is designed to stop working after any removal and you may receive a violation notice in the mail.

Georgia’s Peach Pass will work on Florida and North Carolina toll roads by the end of 2014. However, you must convert your Pay n GO! Account to a Personal Toll Account before your Peach Pass will pay tolls in Florida and North Carolina. You can do so by calling the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

Pay n GO! Peach Pass

The Pay n GO! Peach Pass is designed to make the I-85 Express Lanes accessible to users who may not have credit cards or wish to manage their Peach Pass account with cash. Much like a prepaid phone card, the Pay n GO! Peach Pass can be purchased and reloaded with cash at participating Walgreens and CVS/pharmacy locations.

A Pay n GO! Peach Pass works just like a regular Peach Pass. There are two Pay n GO! Peach Pass options:Full Starter Kit: The Pay n GO! Peach Pass Starter Kit, which includes a fully activated Peach Pass transponder and Reload Card, can be purchased for the cost of the amount of prepaid tolls ($20 -$500), plus a one-time $2.50 retailer fee.

Reload Card: Drivers who already have a Pay n GO! or regular Peach Pass account can purchase toll credits on a Reload Card in the amount of $20-$500, plus a $1.50 convenience fee each time they add funds.

The Pay n GO! Peach Pass is available at participating CVS/pharmacy and Walgreens stores in Georgia, where gift cards and prepaid cards are sold. To find a participating CVS/pharmacy or Walgreens near you, visit our store locator at www.PeachPass.com.

If you already have a Peach Pass account and want to change your payment method to cash, you can purchase a Reload Card with cash at any participating Walgreens® or CVS/pharmacy® store. The Reload Card will need to be added to your account as the primary method of payment and you can load any amount between $20-$500. A $1.50 convenience fee will be added each time funds are added. To add a Reload Card to your Peach Pass account, call 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

Simply call 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277) and provide your contact information (e.g., name and address) and vehicle information (e.g., tag number, car make/model). You do not need to provide a credit or debit card, as you can still pay with cash using your Reload Card.

With the Peach Pass Personal Toll Account, customers receive several benefits that are not available to Pay n GO! Peach Pass account holders, including:
• $5.00 in free trips for converting from a Pay n GO! account

Your Peach Pass funds are only deducted when you ride in the I-85 Express Lanes. Funds applied to a Pay n GO! Peach Pass will expire 5 years from the date the account was established or from the date of the last reload, whichever is later.

In order to use the Peach Pass GO! mobile app, you must convert to a Personal Toll Account and set up online account access at www.PeachPass.com. You can convert to a Personal Toll Account by calling the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

No, Pay n GO! Peach Pass accounts do not allow customers to change to toll-free mode. If customers register their accounts and convert to a Peach Pass Personal Toll Account, they will be able to change to toll-free mode for a free ride when they have 3 or more occupants in the vehicle.

In order to link multiple Pay n GO! Peach Pass transponders to one account, you must convert your account to a Personal Toll Account. You can do so by calling the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

Mobile App FAQ

To open a Peach Pass Personal Toll Account, you need the following information:
• Name, address, email address, and a contact phone number
• Drivers license number
• Year, color, make, model and license plate number of vehicle(s) needing a Peach Pass
• A minimum payment of $20 via credit or debit card to open the account is required
• A valid, active credit or debit card for automatic replenishment of your account

“Toll Mode” means that tolls will be deducted from your Peach Pass account when you use a toll facility.

“Non-Toll Mode” means that tolls will not be deducted from your Peach Pass account because you have met the occupancy requirement (three or more people in the vehicle) to use the I-85 Express Lanes free of charge.

Changing your toll mode will take at least 15 minutes to take effect prior to entering a Toll Facility and only applies to the I-85 Express Lanes facility.

Changing your toll mode using the mobile app takes 15 minutes to process and update your account. If you enter the I-85 Express Lanes before the processing window is completed, you will run the risk of receiving a violation in the mail. Please note that “toll mode changes” only applies to the I-85 Express Lanes. This does not apply to the I-75 South Metro Express Lanes nor the Northwest Corridor Express Lanes.

When you view your transactions, you will see a code that looks similar to this: 85A-PH02-01. Below is a breakdown of the transaction code:
• 85A—The I-85 Express Lane
• PH02—Pleasant Hill at Gantry 02
• 01—Northbound (21 would stand for Southbound)

The abbreviations stand for the actual locations of toll access points. The abbreviations are listed below:
• OPS — Old Peachtree South
• OPN — Old Peachtree North
• PHS — Pleasant Hill South
• PHN—Pleasant Hill North
• ITS— Indian Trail South
• ITN—Indian Trail North
• JCS—Jimmy Carter South
• JCN—Jimmy Carter North
• 285S—Interstate-285 South
• 285N—Interstate-285 North
• 316W— Highway 316 West
• 316E—Highway 316 East

Interoperability

Regional interoperability means that Georgia motorists with a Peach Pass personal toll account will now be able to drive on toll roads in Florida and North Carolina. Through this partnership, any SunPass or NC Quick Pass toll road can be accessed with a Peach Pass.

If you have a Peach Pass Personal Toll Account, you are able to benefit from regional interoperability with Florida and North Carolina. Your existing Peach Pass transponder will work for SunPass-only, Leeway-only, E-Pass-only and NC Quick Pass toll lanes in Florida and North Carolina starting now!

No. If you have a Pay n GO! Peach Pass, you must convert your account BEFORE accessing toll roads in Florida and North Carolina. You can do so by contacting the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277).

Note: Customers should check their accounts online, on the Peach Pass GO! mobile app or by calling Peach Pass Customer Service to ensure the correct license plate is listed and all payment information is up-to-date.

Since you will only need one valid transponder for all of your toll transactions in these three states, there is no need for multiple accounts. However you if you decide to keep more than one account open, you should not be double charged. We suggest that you check your accounts regularly to ensure all trips are being posted correctly

If you choose to close your Peach Pass account, you will be unable to change your toll mode on the I-85 Express Lanes and therefore will have to pay for every trip, regardless of occupancy. Conversely, if you close your SunPass account, you will be unable to participate in the SunPass rebate and discount program.

If you have plans to travel throughout Georgia, Florida, and/or North Carolina this coming holiday season, using a Peach Pass will give you the peace of mind to know you can access any toll road throughout the three states with ease. When you return to Georgia, you can continue to use your Peach Pass on the I-85 Express Lanes and future toll projects.

You must convert your Pay n GO! Peach Pass to a Personal Toll Account in order to use in Florida and North Carolina. Please contact the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277) to get started.

No. The only way to take advantage of the toll-exempt feature is to have a Peach Pass and be in Non-Toll mode. Florida SunPass or North Carolina Quick Pass accounts do not have the ability to switch to Non-Toll status.

In the coming months and years, the number of states in which the Peach Pass is interoperable will continue to expand. SRTA is currently working with E-Z Pass, which encompasses toll roads in 14 states, including New York, New Jersey, Virginia and Pennsylvania.

It’s easy! There are a variety of ways you can get a Peach Pass – you can apply online for a Personal Toll Account at www.PeachPass.com or call 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277) and we will mail you a transponder. You can also pick one up at one of two walk-up locations.

If you prefer to manage your account in cash or via prepaid Reload Cards, you can purchase a Pay n GO! Peach Pass at area CVS/pharmacy® or Walgreens® locations and convert to a Personal Toll Account. This provides you all the same benefits, but allows you to manage your account with as you prefer and you leave the store with a transponder in hand. As an added benefit, by converting your Pay n GO! Peach Pass to a personal toll account, you will receive $5 in free rides.

Enforcement & Incident Management

In order for the lanes to operate efficiently, a combination of visual monitoring by Department of Public Safety vehicles, video enforcement, invisible barriers, and other technology in the lanes will be used to ensure legal use of the I-85 Express Lanes at all times.

Violations issued by the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) are $25.00, plus the cost of the toll. If a driver is pulled over by law enforcement for an Express Lanes violation, an additional citation may be issued (fines for a first offense start at $75, plus court fees). Some violations include:

Entering or exiting the Express Lanes improperly by crossing the double white pavement striping. Violators will be issued a $25 violation and could receive an additional citation from law enforcement if they are pulled over.

Using the Express Lanes without a registered Peach Pass transponder.

Adjusting the toll mode listed on your account to reflect more than three occupants in a vehicle (thus qualifying for toll-exempt travel) and then driving in the Express Lanes with less than three occupants. In addition to receiving a violation notice from SRTA, you will also run the risk of being pulled over by law enforcement and issued a citation.

Faulty Peach Pass or Cruise Card transponders that do not read correctly may also result in a violations notice being issued. In this instance, customers should contact the Peach Pass Customer Service at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277) and replace the faulty transponder.

To receive more information on Violations, see the Violations section of the FAQs or review the Customer Agreement online at www.peachpass.com.

In the case of a traffic incident in or near the I-85 Express Lanes, toll rate signs also may display one of the following messages:

HOT3+ ONLY – Express Lane restricted to carpools of 3 or more. Sign displayed to safely divert traffic out of the Express Lane and around a blockage in the roadway up ahead.

OPEN TO ALL – Express Lane open to all vehicles with less than six axles at no charge, including those without a Peach Pass. Sign displayed to safely divert traffic around a blockage in one or more of the general purpose lanes.

A shoulder is available in the I-75 South Metro Express Lanes so that a driver can safely pull out of the lane in the event of a vehicle stall or break down. HERO units will be patrolling the express lanes to help motorists and move vehicles to shoulders. If an accident occurs, emergency access gates will be located throughout the express lanes to allow first responders to quickly enter the lanes to assist. Gates are designed to allow fire trucks and standard vehicles, like an ambulance, to pull into the express lanes. The project team continues to meet with local emergency responders to develop processes and procedures for responding to any incidents in the lanes once they open to traffic. Cameras that communicate with NaviGator and the Traffic Management Center (TMC) are also located throughout the lanes. TMC operators and Georgia DOT HEROs will monitor both the express lanes and general purpose lanes in the corridor.

Toll Violations

Users of the Georgia Express Lanes are subject to all applicable traffic laws of the State of Georgia and the rules and regulations of the Georgia Department of Transportation. Toll violations occur when users of the Express Lanes do not comply with the rules governing use of the toll facility. For each toll violation, the owner of the vehicle will be responsible for the unpaid toll and an administrative fee as defined in the State Road and Tollway Authority customer agreement. For example, if a vehicle crossed the double white lines to enter or exit the I-85 Express Lane, this illegal maneuver constitutes a toll violation and applicable fees and fines may be imposed. See the Customer Agreement for a listing of toll violations.

Some common examples of toll violations are:

Using an Express Lane without a valid Peach Pass transponder.

Entering or exiting the Express Lanes improperly by crossing the double white lines.

Using an Express Lane when there are insufficient funds in the account to pay the toll.

Transponder didn’t read and the vehicle’s license plate was not listed on your Peach Pass account.

Vehicle accessed Express Lanes with a Peach Pass assigned to a different vehicle or license plate.

Adjusting the toll mode listed on your Peach Pass account to reflect more than 3 occupants in a vehicle, and then driving in the Express Lanes with less than 3 occupants.

Entering or exiting the I-85 Express Lane improperly by crossing the double white pavement striping. (This only applies to the I-85 Express Lanes.)

Unregistered vehicles using the Georgia Express Lanes. All vehicles, even toll exempt vehicles, must register for a Peach Pass Account before using the Georgia Express Lanes.

Adjusting the toll mode listed on your Peach Pass account to reflect more than three occupants in a vehicle (thus qualifying for toll-free travel) and then driving in the I-85 Express Lanes with less than three occupants. In addition to receiving a violation notice from SRTA, motorists will also run the risk of being pulled over and issued a citation by law enforcement. (This only applies to the I-85 Express Lanes.)

The vehicle accessed the Georgia Express Lanes with a Cruise Card or Peach Pass assigned to a different vehicle or license plate. Your Cruise Card or Peach Pass is assigned to one vehicle, and may only be used in the vehicle to which it is registered on your account. If you are using your Cruise Card or Peach Pass in another vehicle, you must contact the Peach Pass Customer Service Center to update the vehicle/license plate information to reflect the current vehicle you want to use in the lanes.

The Cruise Card or Peach Pass may have been deactivated. When the debit/credit card on record with your Peach Pass account is expired or invalid and your account balance is below the threshold amount and requires replenishment, we reserve the right to deactivate your Cruise Card or Peach Pass. Please see the Peach Pass Customer Agreement for account fees and thresholds at www.peachpass.com.

When a Cruise Card or Peach Pass is not detected by electronic readers on the Georgia Express Lanes, violation enforcement cameras take a time stamped image of the license plate. Once the image has been taken, our system cross-checks the plate number against our account information. If no match is achieved a violation is processed and sent to the owner of the vehicle.

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. §32-10-64 (c)(1), there is a $25.00 administrative fee per violation occurrence, plus the toll that was not paid. If the toll and administrative fee are not paid and the matter is brought before the Office of State Administrative Hearings, then the registered owner may be subject to a civil penalty of an additional $70.00 per violation per O.C.G.A. §32-10-64 (c)(1).

If you enter the Georgia Express Lanes and you do not have a Cruise Card or Peach Pass in your vehicle, you have just violated and you will receive a Uniform Toll Violation. You will be responsible for any associated fees and tolls.

If you receive a violation notice and you are a registered customer, more than likely your account needs to be updated. Go online at: www.peachpass.com to update/add this vehicle to your account or call the Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277). Updates/additions not done by the Due Date for violation payment will result in a $25.00 Administrative Fee for each violation and additional penalties, as applicable. To resolve the violation on your account, please contact the Peach Pass Customer Service Center at 1-855-PCH-PASS.

No. The transponder is not transferable. You can only use the Cruise Card/Peach Pass in the vehicle to which it is registered on your account. However you can have up to 10 transponders associated with one account. You can go online to www.peachpass.com and add vehicles to your account and receive additional transponder.

If you receive a Uniform Toll Violation that does not belong to you, please call Violations at 1-855-PCH-PASS (724-7277). We will investigate, and if the plate number was entered incorrectly, the violation will be dismissed.

If the vehicle was sold before the time of the violation, you simply return the payment coupon with a copy of the bill-of-sale. The bill-of-sale should include the date the vehicle was sold and the name and address of the person to whom you sold the vehicle. In addition, you will need to take the Peach Pass device out of the vehicle before you transfer ownership.

Motorists with a Pay n GO! Peach Pass may use a Pay n GO! Reload Card for a one-time violation payment. The card cannot be reloaded again for additional toll credits or to pay future violations. A new reload card must be purchased for future toll credits or violation payments. (See the Pay n GO! Peach Pass section above for instructions for purchasing and using this payment option.)

If you have received a letter labeled “Final Demand,” this means that the Office of the Georgia Attorney General is going to pursue collections at the Office of State Administrative Hearings. Please contact the Violations Administrator listed on the Final Demand notice to handle this matter immediately.

Unpaid violations are referred to a collection agency. If they remain unpaid after 90 days, the Office of the Georgia Attorney General will pursue the matter administratively at the Office of State Administrative Hearings (OSAH). The vehicle’s registration will be suspended if the amount due remains unpaid 30 days after a decision by OSAH is rendered.

Once the violation occurs, the violator is liable for the unpaid toll and a statutory fee of $25 per violation. When pursued through OSAH, violators would then be liable for the unpaid tolls, the statutory fees and a civil penalty of $70 (per violation).

Transit and Carpooling

Approximately $122 million (67 percent of the total project costs) has been designated for transit investments in the I-85 corridor and across the Atlanta metropolitan area. These transit investments include new and expanded park and rides, new passenger coach buses, and expanded GRTA Xpress bus services. Transit riders will also experience more reliable trip times, because the Express Lanes will be managed to provide traffic that is free-flowing.

The I-85 Express Lanes project builds upon highly successful express bus service that currently operates in the I-85 corridor. The investment in transit will expedite the construction of key transit projects that were identified in the 2003 Regional Transit Action Plan (RTAP). In addition, transit will be able to use the I-85 Express Lanes toll-free, so riders will experience a more reliable commute in the lanes. Key transit improvements in the I-85 corridor include:

One of the goals of this project is to promote commute alternatives. In San Diego, carpooling and transit use increased after the I-15 Express Lanes were implemented. The free-flow of traffic in the lanes encouraged commuters to take transit or form carpools or vanpools so they could use the lanes toll-exempt or share the cost. Commuters who choose to ride in vanpools or buses will also benefit from shorter and more reliable trip times in the Express Lane. And solo drivers will benefit from having a choice to pay for a more reliable trip time if it makes sense for them.

Public transit providers that operate in this corridor, including GRTA Xpress and state-registered vanpools will be able to use express lanes free of charge. Any additional state or county transit agencies that expand or introduce operations within the area and register will also have access to the lanes. There will be no additional costs to access the lanes for public transit riders, state-registered vanpools or the public transit providers.

According the Georgia Department of Transportation, The I-75 South Metro Express Lanes are projected to reduce travel time between 6 to 12 minutes in the express lanes and more than 3 minutes in the general purpose lanes. In addition, the express lanes will enhance the economy in the corridor providing existing businesses with greater access to an expanded workforce including more than 5,500 individuals within the 15- to 30-minute travel range and more than 49,000 individuals within a 45- to 60-minute travel range. Transit riders and registered vanpools will be able to travel in the lanes for no additional fee, offering their customers a more reliable trip.

SRTA Now Accepting Applications for Transit Capital Program Funding

Peach Pass Customer Service Center Now Open at Driver Services Office in Locust Grove

The State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) is pleased to announce the opening of a new Peach Pass Customer Service Center in the I-75 South Metro Express Lanes Corridor. Motorists are encouraged to open a Peach Pass account to access the new Express Lanes in Henry County.